Karnataka sees 569 cases of heat-related illnesses! Know what heat rash, heat exhaustion, heat stroke are

“The numbers reflect a concerning trend. Heat-related conditions can escalate quickly from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. However, heat stroke and heat exhaustion are distinct, and people should be aware of when to seek immediate help if they feel uncomfortable,” he warned.

Meanwhile, Dr Aditya S Chowti, a senior consultant in internal medicine at Fortis Hospital, expressed concern to South First about the sweltering summer heat’s impact on public health, noting a surge in illnesses nationwide.

“As temperatures soar to extreme levels, reaching well above 40 degrees Celsius in many regions, individuals are increasingly vulnerable to a variety of heat-related ailments,” he said.

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What is heat rash?

Explaining heat rash, which was seen in 367 cases in Karnataka with temperatures soaring to 43° C in some places, Gopal elaborated, “Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, occurs when the sweat ducts in the skin become blocked, preventing sweat from escaping to the surface to evaporate. This inflammation results in a rash, more common in hot, humid conditions.”

Symptoms of a heat rash include:

• Small red blisters on the skin, usually in areas that are covered by clothing where you sweat more
• An itchy rash
• Mild swelling, discomfort

How can one prevent heat rash? Gopal suggested:

• Stay indoors, especially in the afternoons
• Use fans/air conditioning
• Wear light, loose, breathable fabrics like cotton to help sweat evaporate
• Do not block your pores by applying heavy, thick ointments
• Take a cool shower or bath after activities that make you sweat, dry your skin thoroughly
• Drink plenty of water
• Wet clothes can trap sweat, change out of sweaty clothes or wet clothes as soon as possible

In most cases, a heat rash resolves on its own when the skin is cooled down. However, if the rash doesn’t go away or you notice signs of infection like increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the rash, seeking medical help is advisable.

Also Read: Take a look at the potential risks that rising temperatures pose

What is heat exhaustion?

Chowti explained that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion. characterised by symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache.

It’s one of the heat-related syndromes that range in severity from mild heat cramps to heat exhaustion.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Heavy sweating is the first sign of heat exhaustion
• Generalised weakness or fatigue
• Feeling dizzy especially when standing up or moving suddenly
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin may appear pale due to excessive sweating
• Rapid heart beat
• Heat and electrolyte imbalances can cause muscle cramps
• Headaches due to dehydration and heat
• Cold, clammy skin

Understanding the symptoms of heat-related illnesses can be lifesaving. “Heat cramps are often the first sign, marked by muscle spasms and heavy sweating,” Dr Gopal explained to South First. “If left unchecked, this can progress to heat exhaustion.”

Also Read: Union government asks states to mitigate heat wave impact

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke, a more severe condition, can occur when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, warned Dr Chowti. It can lead to potentially life-threatening consequences if left untreated, he added.

“Symptoms include high body temperature, absence of sweating, and confusion,” explained Dr Gopal. He emphasised the need for immediate medical attention if these signs occur.

In Karnataka, there has been only one case of heat stroke — an 85-year-old man from Mysuru district.

Besides general advice to drink more water and stay indoors, doctors warn against leaving anyone in a parked car, especially children and animals, “as the temperature in your car can rise in just 10 minutes”.